Discover the #1 Concussion Clinic in Montreal

Say Goodbye to Persistent-Concussion Symptoms!

Pointe-Claire, Montreal And West-Island

What Is A Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by acceleration or deceleration of the brain within the skull, following a significant impact to the head or elsewhere on the body.The impact causes a biochemical imbalance within the brain cells, resulting in decreased blood flow and temporary energy deficits within the brain. Concussion symptoms are often difficult to detect at first — however, the brain damage caused by these impacts can result in severe impairment if medical attention is not sought out.

While it’s rare for a single mild concussion to cause permanent brain damage, having a second concussion after the first one can result in much more severe, long-term damage over time.

If you think you’ve suffered a concussion and are exhibiting any of the above-mentioned symptoms, our experts are here to help. Our CCMI concussion rehabilitation program will allow our primary care physicians to monitor your symptoms and ensure a safe recover

Comprehensive Care

At ActixAxion, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive care for the management of concussions. Our personalized approach ensures that each patient receives the appropriate assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies tailored to their specific needs. By prioritizing recovery and prevention, we strive to optimize outcomes and promote long-term brain health. If you or a loved one has experienced a concussion, schedule an appointment with us to begin your journey toward a safe and successful recovery.

Common Symptoms To Watch For:

Loss of consciousness
Headache
Pressure in the head
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or balance

Memory problems
Trouble sleeping
Trouble falling asleep
Sleeping less/more than usual
Neck pain

Behavioural/Emotional
Drowsiness
Fatigue/lethargy
Anxiety/stress
Changes in emotion

The Benefits of Post-Concussion Rehabilitation

Post-concussion rehabilitation includes a detailed plan to help you take the right steps to let your brain recover after a concussion. The first step should be to simply let your brain get its well-needed rest and not overstimulate for the first few days. (the old school mentality of staying in a dark room with no light or sound is over)

As your brain recuperates, our concussion rehab specialists will work alongside you to ensure your recovery is properly underway and that you aren’t taking on any strenuous activities. Our team will also continually monitor your symptoms to make sure you’re receiving premium care at every step of the way.

Many patients are not aware that the first 30 days following a concussion are the most crucial for the brain’s overall health and recovery. As such, you’re best off receiving post-concussion rehab sooner after an injury as opposed to later.

This is also another key indicator as to why all concussion patients are advised to seek medical attention, even if they believe their concussion isn’t more than a mild bump on the head. Any of the above-mentioned symptoms should be followed up with the evaluation of a specialist immediately to avoid any serious complications.

Resting

During the early stage following injury, a period of relative symptom-limited physical and cognitive rest is recommended.

Research suggests 24 to 48 hours — however, these decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Following a short period of rest, the International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport (2022) recommends a gradual increase in mental and physical activity by a licensed healthcare practitioner trained in concussion management.

Our Approach

Our Specific Rehabilitation for Recovery and Symptom Management

At ActivAxion, we take a comprehensive approach to concussion management, providing personalized care tailored to each patient's unique needs. Our goal is to ensure a safe and efficient recovery while minimizing the risk of future concussions.

Our rehabilitation strategies are designed to support the healing process and facilitate a full recovery. We employ a multidisciplinary approach that may include the following components:

1. Education

Education is a vital component of our concussion management program. We provide information and guidance on concussion prevention strategies, including proper technique, equipment use, and awareness of potential risk factors. By empowering individuals with knowledge, we aim to reduce the occurrence of concussions and promote safer participation in sports and daily activities.

2. Rest and Gradual Return to Activity

Rest is essential during the early stages of recovery to allow the brain to heal but also receiving a tailored plan to slowly habituate to stimuli. We provide guidance on appropriate rest periods and develop a gradual return-to-activity plan tailored to each individual's needs. This ensures a safe transition back to daily activities, school, work, and sports.

3. Exercise Therapy

Exertional testing for return-to-sport readiness and sub-symptom threshold exercise programs for persistent symptoms. Exercise should start after the first 2-3 days of an injury as research is showing better outcomes when exercise is done earlier on.

4. Athletic Therapy

Athletic therapy plays a crucial role in concussion management. Our skilled therapists provide specialized exercises and rehabilitation techniques to improve balance, coordination, strength, and mobility. Athletic therapy also targets any associated musculoskeletal issues resulting from the injury.

5. Cervical spine rehabilitation

Most symptoms we see actually stem from the neck. A lot of therapists focus on the ocular and vestibular systems with little progress when the neck musculature is actually the priority.

6. Cognitive Rehabilitation

Concussions can impact cognitive function, including memory, attention, and processing speed. Our cognitive rehabilitation programs aim to address these challenges through targeted exercises, brain training techniques, and strategies to improve cognitive function and optimize daily functioning.

7. Visual/Oculomotor Therapy

Concussions often affect visual processing and can lead to visual disturbances and difficulties. Our visual therapy programs focus on improving visual skills, such as eye tracking, visual memory, and visual processing speed, to enhance overall visual performance and reduce symptoms.

8. Vestibular Rehabilitation

The vestibular system, responsible for balance and spatial orientation, can be affected by concussions. Our vestibular rehabilitation programs target these issues and aim to improve balance, reduce dizziness, and enhance overall stability.

9. Lifestyle Advice

This ranges anywhere from nutrition/supplementation, sleep habits, and stress reduction.